“It is very humbling for me to be named one of the nation's most influential black Christian history makers,” McFarland said. “Leaving a legacy for others to follow requires time and effort. Honor should not be something you seek. We should seek to be faithful and leave success to the Lord.”

McFarland said his experience at Liberty has given him the opportunity to serve the Lord throughout the world.

“If this recognition comes as a gift, then it is not just a good thing in my life, it is a God thing to honor and glorify the Lord,” he said. “He has done great things for me, and I am grateful to be known as a part of the Liberty family.”

McFarland left Portsmouth on Friday, Feb. 28, for a two-week mission trip to Ghana along with members of his church and three of his students, junior Kristi Allen, senior Elizabeth Chadwick, and sophomore Ellie Hopkins.

During the trip, the group will visit three schools to assist with health screenings, teach men’s and women’s Bible studies, minister in local churches, and fellowship with ABWE International missionaries. Allen, Chadwick, and Hopkins will also have the opportunity to recruit for Liberty by sharing their testimonies with local missionary families.

McFarland and three of his students (from left) Elizabeth Chadwick, Kristi Allen, and Ellie Hopkins recently left with McFarland's church for a mission trip.

“I have been looking forward to going on this trip with Dr. McFarland. He is intentional as a professor and as a person, and I cannot wait to see what God will do through all of us while we are in Africa,” Hopkins said.

McFarland first visited Liberty in 1977 and soon enrolled as a student after realizing his call from God to become a pastor. He and his wife Doris have five children, and they all received degrees from Liberty.

“As I rehearse the journeys of my life, I am reminded of many struggles, hardships, and challenges,” McFarland said. “Yet, God was with me all the way, and I look forward to what He will continue to do through me.”